For businesses and developers in Calvert County, the Zoning Ordinance outlines essential rules that impact land use, building standards, and environmental protections. Here’s what you need to know:

• Permitted Uses: Each zoning district has specific permitted uses—check if your business type or development plan aligns with your property’s zoning designation.
• Building Standards: Height limits, lot sizes, and density requirements vary by district, which can affect the scale and layout of your project.
• Environmental Protections: Developments near natural resources like wetlands and forests face stricter regulations to preserve Calvert County’s environmental health.
• Flexibility Options: Variances and special exceptions are available for unique projects that need flexibility beyond standard zoning rules.

These regulations ensure that growth in Calvert County remains balanced and sustainable. For full details, view the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance.

Last Friday, we gathered to celebrate at our annual Beacon of Light initiative, a cherished event where we recognize the incredible individuals and businesses who make a meaningful impact in our community. This year’s celebration was truly memorable, and we’re excited to share highlights from the evening and congratulate all of our inspiring recipients.

A special congratulations to Mark Frisco, who was honored with the Tony DeStefano Legacy Award for his exemplary dedication and lasting contributions. Mark’s work has left a significant and enduring impact on our community, embodying the spirit of service and leadership.

We also extend our warmest congratulations to each of our award recipients for their achievements and unwavering commitment to excellence. You are the beacon that guides our community toward growth and prosperity.

Stay tuned for photos capturing these remarkable moments and the inspiring individuals who are lighting the way forward in Calvert County!

Calvert County Public Schools is moving forward with the Northern Middle School Replacement project, an initiative aimed at enhancing the educational environment for our community. Keller Construction Management, on behalf of CCPS, is overseeing the solicitation process and inviting bids from qualified contractors.

Project Details:

• Project Title: Northern Middle School Replacement
• Location: 2954 Chaneyville Road, Owings, MD 20736
• Bidding Deadline: November 18, 2024, at 4:00 PM EST

Contract Packages Include: This project encompasses a range of services from Earthwork and Carpentry to Roofing, Electrical, and more specialized services like Athletic Flooring and Food Service Equipment. Each contract has specific MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) participation goals, supporting diversity and inclusion in public sector projects.

Diversity and Inclusion Goals: CCPS encourages a diverse range of vendors to participate. Various packages have set goals for African American and Women-owned businesses, contributing to our commitment to equal opportunity and community representation.

Important Deadlines:

• Pre-Bid Questions Due: November 1, 2024, at 4:00 PM EST
• Bid Submission Deadline: November 18, 2024, at 4:00 PM EST

How to Access Bidding Documents: Interested vendors can access the detailed bidding documents and instructions by visiting this link on eMMA or by contacting Keller Construction Management via email at northernms@kellerbrothers.com.

Looking back at the 2023 Beacon of Light Recognition Celebration, where we honored outstanding individuals and businesses for their exceptional community service. Join us again on November 1, 2024, as we celebrate the next group of remarkable leaders making a difference in Calvert County.

As Maryland officials scramble to meet the state’s ambitious clean energy mandates, they are coalescing around a concept that seemed unthinkable a decade ago: That nuclear energy must be part of the solution. Even environmentalists are coming to terms with the idea.

Paul Pinsky, the director of the Maryland Energy Administration, and one of the leading climate advocates in Annapolis during his long tenure in the General Assembly, recalled protesting against nuclear power plants in the 1970s. Now, he says, nuclear has “become a staple” in the state and nation’s energy portfolio, even if many Americans don’t realize it.

“If you asked 100 people on the street if their lights came on because of nuclear energy, I would guess three people would know it,” Pinsky said.

The Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant in Southern Maryland generates about 40% of the energy produced in Maryland — all of it carbon-free. More than 80% of the clean energy generated in the state comes from the nuclear plant.

But nuclear continues to be hamstrung by a reputation, gained largely after high-profile disasters at power plants in the 1970s and 1980s, that it’s dangerous. The nuclear industry has also been struggling financially: Several nuclear power plants across the country have been decommissioned over the past few decades, in part because more natural gas power is being generated in the U.S. than ever before, which is far cheaper to produce. Yet clean energy mandates have prompted policymakers to take another look at nuclear, knowing that whatever progress is being made developing other clean energy sources is inadequate for meeting short- and medium-term goals.

In an exciting leap forward, the Calvert Chamber of Commerce proudly unveils its new website, a more modern, compliant platform designed to enhance user experience and empower local businesses like never before. This long-overdue upgrade marks a significant milestone in our journey to better serve our members and the community at large.

A Fresh Look and Enhanced Functionality

The new Calvert Chamber of Commerce website, carefully crafted, reflects our commitment to innovation and user-centric design. With a sleek and intuitive interface, navigating the site is now a breeze, ensuring our members visitors can quickly find the information they need.

Empowering Chamber Business Profiles

Central to the website’s redesign is the enhanced Chamber Business Profile feature. Members can now showcase their businesses with enriched content, photos, and direct links to their websites. This robust profile functionality not only promotes visibility but also fosters connections within our vibrant business community.

Seamless Event Promotion

Gone are the days of missing out on local events. The new website allows members to submit their events directly, ensuring they reach a wider audience. What’s more, businesses can boost their listings or events for increased visibility, putting them front and center on the community’s radar.

A Long Overdue Upgrade

The launch of this new website is more than just a technological upgrade; it’s a testament to our Chamber’s dedication to progress and service excellence. Over the years, the digital landscape has evolved rapidly, and we are proud to finally offer a platform that meets contemporary expectations.

Join Us in Celebration

As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to explore the new Calvert Chamber of Commerce website. Whether you’re a longstanding member, a prospective business owner, or a community enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Discover new opportunities, connect with local businesses, and experience firsthand the power of community collaboration.

The launch of our new website marks a new chapter in our Chamber’s history—a chapter defined by innovation, accessibility, and unwavering support for our members. We are excited about the future it promises and look forward to continuing our journey of growth and prosperity together.

Proudly Powered by Wattz Web Design and Marketing

Wattz Web Design and Marketing, spearheaded the website’s development and has played a pivotal role in shaping this transformative project. Together, we’ve created a digital hub that not only meets but exceeds the needs of our members and stakeholders.  I hope you are as pleased with the new website as we are.